Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is celebrating a significant win, taking home the prestigious ‘Best for Solo Travellers’ award at the 2024 Cruise Critic UK Best in Cruise Awards. This accolade underscores the cruise line’s unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional and enriching experience for solo travelers, a segment of the cruise market increasingly seeking tailored itineraries and social opportunities.
The award, presented at the 16th annual Cruise Critic Best in Cruise Awards (formerly known as the Cruise Critic Editor’s Picks), is based on a rigorous evaluation process incorporating both expert analysis and valuable passenger feedback. This recognition highlights Fred. Olsen’s leading position in catering to the specific needs and desires of solo cruisers, distinguishing them from the broader cruise industry.
Fred. Olsen’s dedication to solo travelers is evident in a range of thoughtfully designed amenities and programs. These include exclusive welcome drink parties, designed to break the ice and facilitate connections; communal dining tables, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences; and dedicated solo traveller meet-ups, organized to help guests connect with like-minded individuals and forge lasting friendships.
Beyond these social initiatives, Fred. Olsen provides a diverse selection of solo cabins, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every traveler’s preference and budget. From spacious balcony suites offering breathtaking ocean views to more intimate interior rooms, solo cruisers can select the accommodation that best suits their needs and travel style. The cruise line understands that even in a shared activity, the ability to retreat to a private and comfortable space is valuable for solo travelers.
Onboard activities are specifically designed to encourage interaction and engagement. Arts and crafts sessions, dance classes, and a dedicated program of events exclusively for solo travelers help create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. These initiatives showcase Fred. Olsen’s innovative approach to ensuring solo travelers not only have a pleasant cruise but also the opportunity to connect with others and create lasting memories.
Doug Glenwright, Guest Experience Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, expressed his delight at the award, stating: “We are thrilled to be recognized for our commitment to the many solo guests we welcome onboard each year. We believe that traveling solo shouldn’t limit one’s ability to explore the world and enjoy all the magical moments cruising offers. Our smaller ships provide a warm and inviting setting, facilitating connections with fellow travelers through specially curated experiences.”
This latest award adds to Fred. Olsen’s impressive collection of recent accolades, including a silver award for Best Cruise Line for No-Fly Cruise Holidays at the British Travel Awards and the title of Favourite Specialist Cruise Line at the Wave Awards. These multiple awards consistently confirm the cruise line’s position as a leader in innovative and guest-centric cruise experiences, particularly for the growing solo traveler market.
